Brantford-Brant’s labour market participation has been on a decline over the last few months. In December 2025, Brantford-Brant’s jobless rate rose to 9.3%, up from November’s 9%, according to the latest seasonally adjusted estimates from Statistics Canada. Employment and participation declined more significantly, with around 1000 fewer individuals working or seeking employment.
Across Canada, the unemployment rate increased by 0.3 points to 6.8%, while the employment rate held steady. In Ontario, the unemployment rate rose more substantially, up 0.6 points to 7.9%. Norfolk County’s unemployment rate sat considerably lower in December – at 4.2% – but this community also experienced declines in labour force participation and employment over the last quarter.
Brantford-Brant began 2025 with the lowest unemployment rate across the province, but this figure climbed over the course of 2025 as more people looked for work. Based on annual labour force survey data released Friday, the area’s unemployment rate in 2025 was 8%, up from 5.4% the year prior. The largest employment drop was in construction, but many service-providing businesses – namely in finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing, and business, building and other support services – have seen consistent declines over the last few months. Employment in manufacturing, on the other hand, has been on the rise.
The planning board’s job board, Grand Erie Jobs, saw a 9% month-over-month decrease in new job postings and in companies hiring, with many employers filling their job vacancies more quickly than before.
Introducing the Employer Engagement Video Series
As employers navigate evolving labour market conditions, workforce and education partners across Grand Erie continue to play a critical role in supporting recruitment, training, and workforce development. Beginning next week, the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie will launch a weekly series of short video interviews on its social media channels, featuring representatives from local service providers and educational institutions. The series will run through the end of March. These videos are funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
The video series will highlight the range of resources available to local businesses, including hiring support, workforce training and upskilling programs, as well as incentives for employers. By showcasing these programs, the initiative aims to help employers connect with local talent and plan for workforce needs. The Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie extends sincere thanks to the frontline workers and service providers who continue to support the community during challenging times.
For more, visit Statistics Canada’s website to read their news release on the December 2025 employment numbers for Canada and Ontario.
